NAWCC MemberDonor

I use Zenith 251NA. It is a concentrate and is mixed with water and easy to dispose of. I also wanted non-ammoniated. It seems to work fine, although I have nothing to compare it to since this is all I have ever used.

I did find that if left in the US for a period of time it went thick and gelatinous. I contacted the supplier and they said that bacteria was causing it. Since I only do a couple of clocks a month, I decided to store it in an air tight glass container. When time to use it, I put hot water in the US and pour the Zenith into a zip loc bag along with the clock parts and put the bag in the water in the US. When I am done I pour the cleaner back into the sealed container.

NAWCC MemberSponsor

I've been using the "Historic" brand lately too. I use it at the higher concentration of 7 parts water to 1 part concentrate and it does a pretty nice job when it's fresh. I kept it sealed in my Ultrasonic with a gasket around the lid. It will do a fair job for quite a while but like any cleaner, you have to keep an eye on its effectiveness. Either that or change it out on a schedule. Before Historic I used L & R Clock Cleaner. That's very effective but I had to mix it under a stove top exhaust fan because the concentrated Ammonia was so strong. Don't know about Zenith. If you're looking to save some money there are several recipes on the board for home-made solutions.

NAWCC MemberSponsor

I just remembered that some members here report good results using Zep Fast 505 or Purple Power in their Ultrasonic Cleaners. I don't know how effective they would be in a cold soak/bath approach. I do use Zep Fast 505 as a pre-soak and for the relatively short time my clock parts are in there (room temp for about 20 minutes) it does have an effect. Even if you do get a commercial clock cleaner, you may want to use one of these products as a pre-soak to extend the life of the more expensive cleaner.

NAWCC Life MemberDonor

Has anyone had any experience with Zenith clock cleaning solutions? I've been using the product from TimeSavers, but Zenith appears to be lower priced.

Good, Bad or otherwise?

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We have been using the Zenith waterless for several years both for cleaning and rinsing. #1000 for cleaning and #1001 for rinse. We believe it to be the best on the market and does not have the strong odor of the others. They do make a water based concentrate as well. The #251 is ammoniated and the #251NA non ammoniated. All are sold by the gallon. We carry it as well as do most suppliers.

We have been using the Zenith waterless for several years both for cleaning and rinsing. #1000 for cleaning and #1001 for rinse. We believe it to be the best on the market and does not have the strong odor of the others. They do make a water based concentrate as well. The #251 is ammoniated and the #251NA non ammoniated. All are sold by the gallon. We carry it as well as do most suppliers.

NAWCC Life MemberDonor

Many localities have a waste disposal system where they take paint, etc. Of course in the old days my father used to pour it around the garage, etc. to kill the grass and spiders, etc. Not that I am recommending it.

The NAWCC is dedicated to providing association services, promoting interest in and encouraging the collecting of clocks and watches.The NAWCC exists to advance Horology, which is the art and science of timekeeping.